Explore Bowling Ball Beach
Chillin, Photography, Swimming
Beginner
Year Round
Explore this Point Area beach with huge spherical stones lining the beach. This is an amazing spot for a sunset or beach picnic.
This scenic beach is a part of Schooner Gulch State Beach in Mendocino County. The beach is named after it's iconic sandstone "bowling balls" found there. There's parking along the west side of the highway with two trailheads. The southern trail will take you to Schooner Gulch Beach.
Legend has it that Schooner Gulch is named after a story in which a schooner was spotted, stranded on the beach in the mouth of the gulch; however, in the morning showed no evidence of being there.
If you're looking for picnic goods nearby, stop by Arena Market & Cafe. Caught the sunset and want to stop in for a bite and a beer, head to Unedaeat.
Photos: John K
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
Nearby Lodging
Peace and Plenty Farm
Kelseyville, California
Enchanted Forest Cosmo Site
Occidental, California
Mystic Mountain Petrified Camp
Santa Rosa, California
Reviews
Overall rating:
An Hidden Little Wonderland!
I had seen epic pictures photographers had taken at this beach and I thought for sure it would be just a mediocre beach that really good photographers had taken pictures of. I was wrong, everything from the steps you take to get down to the beach, to the dramatic cliffs, to the interesting rocks the lined the shore was surreal and beautiful! Really cool place to check out!
